An ongoing series where we ask IWW members, branches, and campaigns to answer a partially-ridiculous list of questions.
From the editors: we intend this series as a convenient way to get to know the Union which, after all, is your Union, your organizers, campaigns, and branches. Learn about the many individuals who make up the One Big Union and get to know the personalities and actual humans behind the posts and screen names.
How would you like your name printed? (Options include first and last, first and last initial, first, X-number, etc. It’s completely up to you)
Tuck
What are your pronouns?
He/him.
What branch or local are you affiliated with?
Whatcom-Skagit GMB in the NW corner of Washington State.
Why did you join the IWW?
Joined in Seattle in 1981. I grew up in the 50s and 60s around loggers and was vaguely familiar with the tragedies in Everett and Centralia. Wanted to be a part of “the revolution” and be a Wobbly.
Why have you stayed?
I learned the IWW was real, and I was dissatisfied with all other ‘isms’. The wonderful Fellow Workers I have met all over North America keep me going.
It’s self care time, how are you treating yourself?
Very well. I hike, climb, bike, read, travel, socialize, nap.
Is there a wobbly (current or historical) you most admire?
Covington Hall. Unsung wobs we never heard of.
The revolution is over, the wage system is abolished, we installed whatever post-capitalist system you prefer. What are you doing Saturday?
That system is, of course, the OBU [One Big Union]. That’s why we are Wobs, right? I will go for a hike then nap.
What’s your big plan for your committee? Where would you like to see it go?
Expanded GEB . More members. Less politics. More at large members. More diverse. Fewer ‘personalities’.
What’s the best part about your committee?
Logging off.
What part of your committee needs the most improvement?
Less “agendas’. No factionalists. More even share of tasks. More trust in each other.
How ya feeling right now?
Just fine, thanks.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
‘Man’.
What’s your happiest experience while in the union?
1. NARA Organizing Conference, Seattle 2019
2. Convention Oakland, 2016
What’s been your greatest learning experience while in the union?
How to have a meeting.
Which talent would you most like to have?
Sing and play guitar.
Where would you most like to live?
I am already there.
What do you most value in your Fellow Workers?
Friendliness, dedication.
Who are your favorite writers?
Patrick O’Brian. John McPhee.
Who is your hero of fiction?
Stephen Maturin
What’s your motto?
‘Think twice’
How would you like to die?
Quietly.